FIJI Sevens legend Waisale Serevi believes the inclusion of Virimi Vakatawa and Luke Tagi will provide the experience and forward strength the Flying Fijians need after injuries forced changes to the squad ahead of their Test against England this Sunday.
Vakatawa and Tagi have been called into the squad to replace injured duo Semi Radradra and Tim Hoyt following Fiji’s Nations Championship opener against Wales in Cardiff over the weekend.
Serevi said Tagi’s arrival could help address one of the areas that troubled Fiji in the opening match.
“I think another problem with scrums was the tight-head prop so taking in Luke Tagi will fix the scrum a little bit during the match against England,” Serevi pointed out.
“We know England have very strong forwards, but if Luke gets the opportunity to play, the scrum will be good.”
Serevi also welcomed Vakatawa’s call-up, saying the experienced centre had earned his place after remaining patient and prepared.
“I believe he deserves to be in the team,” Serevi said.
“I met him the other day and told him it was a long campaign. Maybe someone will get injured, so keep training. I said the same thing to Mesake Toge and Sikeli Rabitu; ‘When they call you, you have to be ready.’”
Serevi said he was pleased to see Vakatawa rewarded for being ready for the call-up, adding the former France international impressed when he played for the Barbarians recently.
“I believe he played really well for the Barbarians against South Africa and that’s another threat in the Fijian backline if he gets the opportunity to play against England.”
While acknowledging Radradra’s ouster was significant, Serevi believes Vakatawa has the experience to step into the role.
“Losing Semi Radradra leaves big shoes to fill, but Virimi Vakatawa has played Test rugby before. He knows what to do, and I believe he is a very good replacement.
“Unfortunately, Semi couldn’t continue, but I believe Fiji has the depth it needs to cope with these injuries.”
The Flying Fijians will play England at 1.10am on Sunday at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, England.
